Rasool not competing with Ashwin: Bedi

The legendary Bishan Singh Bedi, who has been instrumental in shaping young Parveez Rasool's career, feels the Jammu and Kashmir cricketer should play his natural game and not think about competing with a seasoned pro like Ravichandran Ashwin.

"Rasool deserved this call-up and he should utilize this opportunity to the fullest. He has the temperament which is key to succeed at the highest level," Bedi, a former Indian captain, told PTI reacting to Rasool's inclusion in the senior team for the tour of Zimbabwe.

Since this is a second string squad, the question arises as to what happens when first-choice off-spinner Ashwin makes a comeback after a break.

"Why in the world should Rasool think about competing with Ashwin? Ashwin has created his niche and it's Rasool's turn to impress the team management with his prowess. Just because Ashwin might come back tomorrow doesn't stop Rasool from grabbing this opportunity with both hands.

"God has given him an opportunity and he should be in proper physical and mental space to use this chance," Bedi explained.

Asked about Rasool's qualities, Bedi said, "He is technically very sound off-break bowler. I used to tell him that "tumhara pahla itna accha hain, tumhe doosre ki zarroorat kabhi nahi hogi (You bowl a beautiful off-break and you don't need to use the doosra)."

For Rasool, the priority will be to get a look in the playing XI.

"He did well against visiting sides to show he belongs to the level. Now he has made the cut and most importantly he should get proper match time," the former left-arm spinner said.

Former India glovesman Deep Dasgupta is equally excited at the news as he was instrumental in roping in Rasool in the Pune Warriors squad for the sixth edition of the IPL.

"It's an awesome news for me. What I liked about him was his ability to soak in information. Even our coach Allan Donald was impressed with his work ethics and sincerity. He is humble, always ready to learn and is a team man to the core.

"Even when he wasn't getting a chance in the playing XI, he didn't lose heart and trained even harder. Trust me, all these are essential ingredients that goes into the making of a good cricketer," Dasgupta said.